What happened
On July 13, 2000, a Reims Aviation Cessna F1t77 RG departed from Dresden on a private visual flight rules (VFR) flight bound for Egelsbach. Due to a technical issue with the landing gear, which could not be retracted, the aircraft flew with the gear extended.
As the flight progressed, the aircraft encountered a warm front characterized by rain, fog, and low cloud ceilings. Radar data indicates the aircraft was traveling at approximately 90 to 100 knots. At approximately 17:57 UTC, the aircraft struck the Rottenberg at an altitude of 1,460 ft MSL. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and the fatalities of the pilot and two passengers. The wreckage was scattered over an area of about 100 meters.
The investigation
The BFU investigation established that the aircraft was operating in IMC (Instrument Meteorological Conditions) at the time of the crash, despite being on a VFR flight plan. Weather analysis showed that while the primary cloud base was between 1,900 and 2,400 ft MSL, lower stratus layers existed between 800 and 1,300 ft MSL. At the crash site, visibility was reduced to less than 1 km due to rain and fog.
The investigation also noted that the pilot had received a weather briefing prior to departure, which warned of an approaching occlusion and low cloud ceilings in mountainous areas. Although the pilot held a valid instrument rating, the aircraft's avionics were only certified for VFR flight, meaning an IFR transition was not permitted. The investigation found no evidence of technical malfunctions or pilot impairment, as toxicology and CO tests were negative.
Findings
- The pilot continued the VFR flight despite deteriorating visibility and cloud ceilings.
- The aircraft was forced to descend to maintain visual contact with the ground, eventually flying below the height of obstacles previously cleared during the flight.
- The pilot failed to abort the flight or divert to a suitable airfield when weather conditions worsened.
- The aircraft was flying with extended landing gear due to a mechanical issue, though this did not directly cause the impact.